New Report Outlines Roadmap to Deliver on Cancer Moonshot Initiative

Dec 20, 2017

The Lancet Oncology Commission on Future Research Priorities in the USA recently released its report on the Cancer Moonshot Initiative. The report, Future Cancer Research Priorities in the USA, outlines 13 key priority areas for research, as well as metrics designed to be achievable over the next 6 years. The report was authored by more than 50 leading oncologists, including ASCO CEO Clifford A. Hudis, MD, FACP, FASCO.

The Commission was established to build on the work of the Cancer Moonshot Initiative Blue Ribbon Panel (BRP). In fall 2016, the BRP identified 10 recommendations and three demonstration projects to leverage new advances in cancer diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. By expanding on the list of priorities included in the BRP report and providing additional guidance on how to implement the Moonshot over the next several years, the Commission’s report gives stakeholders a more detailed work plan to track and measure progress against cancer. (Visit ASCO.org to read the full report.)

Dr. Hudis spoke during the official launch of the report on Capitol Hill on November 1, 2017. “The blueprint laid out by the Blue Ribbon Panel and this Commission should help us prioritize our efforts to accelerate meaningful clinical advances in the next 4 to 5 years,” said Dr. Hudis. “The provisions provide an opportunity for cancer investigators, federal agencies, universities and research institutes, and private philanthropic supporters worldwide to direct their investments and help the global community meet the ambitious goal of delivering 10 years’ progress in half that time. We have a rare moment now of unity, with our political forces and our general public aligned behind the goals of the Moonshot effort. What we have to do is deliver.”